This image alludes to the negative body images that girls are exposed to at a young age. "Love Your Body" is an event that works to change how men and women perceive body images. Courtesy Photo

Cal Poly’s Women’s Programs and Services will host day two of the “Love Your Body” event today at 11 a.m. with a Wellness Fair on Dexter Lawn.

“Love Your Body” promotes self-love and acceptance while challenging young people to redefine society’s definition of beauty.

Guest speaker Julian Varela discussed the effects of negative media stereotypes on health, nutrition and self-confidence Monday night in Chumash Auditorium. Following his presentation, audience members participated in a series of discussion groups and activities.

Today’s event will offer opportunities to participate in activities that empower men and women by defying the false and negative associations of beauty by reinforcing honest, positive and healthy body image. Garbage bins and magazine ads will be at today’s event.

This marks the fifth year Cal Poly has put on the “Love Your Body” event.

“It’s never been this big,” said Christina Kaviani, program assistant for Women’s Programs and Services. “We wanted to highlight the event this year by encouraging student housing communities and Greek Life to attend.

The sometimes competitive effort to fit in and look good causes several issues for men and women of all ages, especially for freshmen and sophomores on a college campus. If you can show me one person who has never had issues with body image and self-esteem, that would be a miracle.”

The national event, hosted by communities of all sizes including several college campuses, began as a response to the media’s exaggerated negative presentations of body image.

“Love Your Body” is about having a day to examine real beauty,” Kaviani said.

Participating groups include the Community Action Partnership, Nutrition Club, Women’s Leadership Council, Pulse, Equilibrium Fitness for Women and SAFER.

Proceeds from food, drink, T-shirt and art sales will go to the Women’s Shelter Program of San Luis Obispo.